Found in the House of the Mosaic Atrium, this object (Latin: cista) is a finely crafted artisan product, symbolizing the refinement and technical expertise of the period. The cista was likely used to store water in domestic settings.
Its decoration is divided into eight bands featuring geometric patterns, shells, and medallions depicting deities and symbolic animals. Among the most notable figures are: a sculptor next to a statue of Minerva, a bull with Nike, Jupiter with his eagle, Diana with her bow, and a warrior in battle.
These cistae were generally placed in strategic parts of the house—like atriums and courtyards—to collect and store water. This particular one was found near the kitchen, where a steady water supply was essential.
Many of these tanks, or at least a significant number, are attributed to the engraver L. Clodius Hilarus, who lived during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Such artifacts are documented almost exclusively in the Vesuvian area—particularly in Pompeii—suggesting a specialized local production. Today, around fifty specimens are known, preserved in Pompeii, Herculaneum, and the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.